Parents of Perth baby who died of whooping cough thank doctors and nurses

The parents of Perth baby Riley Hughes, whose whooping cough death sparked a vaccination campaign, have thanked the medical staff who treated him in an emotional Facebook post.

Greg and Catherine Hughes expressed their gratitude on the Light for Riley page, recognising both the big and small actions of doctors and nurses.

The couple remembered Riley's speedy diagnosis and careful treatment in February 2015, as well as the nurses who fed, sympathised and calmed them and their toddler daughter.

"Thank you to the nurses who helped entertain our daughter with toys and games when Riley was dying in hospital," the post read.

"Thank you to the clever doctor who correctly diagnosed Riley before receiving the swab results back, just by the sound of his cough.

"Thank you to the doctor who told me there was a chance Riley could die. I didn't like you at the time, purely because your words felt like huge punch in the gut, but it was important we were prepared.

"Thank you to the nurse who came to Riley's funeral and said such kind words to us.

Mr and Mrs Hughes said doctors and nurses deserve gratitude, and particularly recognised their work in explaining the importance of vaccines and "what can happen when babies who are too young to be vaccinated contract a vaccine-preventable disease".